Items filtered by date: May 2024

Tuesday, 28 May 2024 00:00

Excessive Foot Sweat

Sweaty feet can be more than just an inconvenience, they can also lead to social embarrassment and discomfort. Medically known as plantar hyperhidrosis, this condition involves excessive sweating of the feet regardless of the temperature or level of physical activity. This occurs due to overactive sweat glands. While it can affect anyone, it is particularly prevalent among teenagers and pregnant women, due to hormonal changes, as well as those who are physically active or stressed. Managing sweaty feet involves maintaining good foot hygiene, such as regular washing and thorough drying of feet. Using antiperspirants specifically designed for feet, wearing socks made from moisture-wicking materials, and choosing shoes made of breathable fabrics can also help control moisture. If these methods do not alleviate the problem, the condition might be considered severe. In such cases, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide access to more specialized treatments, such as prescription antiperspirants, iontophoresis, or possibly Botox injections for relief.

If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact one of our podiatrists of New Jersey Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

Hyperhidrosis of the Feet

Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.

Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.

In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.

A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Oradell, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Foot pain is a common ailment that can affect anyone, from athletes to office workers. While some foot pain is temporary and manageable with home remedies, other types may signal more serious issues that require medical attention. Knowing when to seek professional help can make a significant difference in your recovery and overall foot health. Here’s a guide to understanding when your foot pain might be serious.

Common Causes of Foot Pain

  • Foot pain can arise from various sources, including:
  • Injuries: Sprains, fractures, and strains.
  • Overuse: Conditions like plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendinitis.
  • Structural Issues: Flat feet or high arches.
  • Systemic Diseases: Diabetes, arthritis, or gout.
  • Improper Footwear: Shoes that do not fit well or provide adequate support.

Most minor foot pain can be managed with rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), and over-the-counter pain relief. However, there are certain symptoms and scenarios where foot pain should not be ignored.

 

Signs Your Foot Pain Is Serious

Severe Pain and Swelling: If you experience intense pain and swelling, it could indicate a fracture, a severe sprain, or an infection. This level of pain often restricts your ability to walk or bear weight on the affected foot.

  • Persistent Pain: Foot pain that lasts more than a week, despite home treatment, warrants a visit to the doctor. Persistent pain might be a sign of a chronic condition or an injury that hasn’t healed properly.
  • Numbness or Tingling: These sensations can indicate nerve damage or compression, which is common in conditions like tarsal tunnel syndrome or peripheral neuropathy. If you experience these symptoms, especially if they worsen, seek medical advice.
  • Visible Deformities: If your foot appears deformed after an injury, or if you notice changes in the shape of your foot over time, this could indicate a serious problem like a dislocated joint or a progressive condition like bunions.
  • Open Wounds or Sores: Diabetic patients, in particular, should be vigilant about foot sores or wounds that do not heal, as they can lead to severe infections or ulcers.

Infection Signs: Redness, warmth, and a fever accompanying foot pain are signs of a potential infection, which can spread quickly and require prompt medical treatment.

  • Difficulty Walking: If your foot pain causes a significant limp or makes walking difficult, it’s important to get it evaluated. This could be due to a variety of issues, including a stress fracture or severe tendinitis.
  • Changes in Skin Color or Temperature: Blue or white toes, or toes that feel unusually cold, could indicate circulation problems. These symptoms should be assessed by a healthcare professional as they may be related to vascular diseases.

 

When to See a Doctor

If any of the above symptoms sound familiar, it’s time to consult a healthcare provider. Here’s a quick checklist for when to see a doctor about your foot pain:

 

Pain and swelling that is severe or does not improve with rest.

Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations.

Visible deformities or changes in the foot’s shape.

Open sores, especially if you have diabetes.

Signs of infection (redness, warmth, fever).

Persistent pain lasting more than a week.

Difficulty walking or bearing weight on the foot.

Changes in skin color or temperature of the foot.

 

Preventive Measures

To prevent foot pain from becoming serious, consider these tips:

Wear Proper Footwear: Choose shoes that fit well and provide adequate support and cushioning.

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reducing the strain on your feet can prevent pain and injuries.

Stretch and Strengthen: Regular exercises that improve flexibility and strength in your feet can help prevent injuries.

Listen to Your Body: Avoid overdoing activities that cause foot pain, and allow time for rest and recovery.

 

While foot pain is often a minor inconvenience, it’s important to recognize when it could be a sign of something more serious. Paying attention to your symptoms and seeking medical advice when necessary can help prevent long-term damage and ensure your feet stay healthy and pain-free. Don’t ignore your foot pain – your feet are the foundation of your body, and taking care of them is crucial for your overall well-being.

Call Our Offices to discuss your options 201-261-9445

Tuesday, 21 May 2024 00:00

How to Make Sure Shoes Fit Well

Ensuring your shoes fit properly is critical for comfort and foot health. Begin by measuring your feet later in the day when they are at their largest, and stand while measuring to mimic weight-bearing conditions. Take note of both length and width, including the arch length, as this affects shoe fit. Keep in mind that sizes can vary between shoe brands, so always prioritize fit over the number on the label. If your feet are different sizes, opt for the larger size to prevent discomfort. During fitting, wear the same type of socks or foot coverings you plan to wear with the shoes. Leave a thumb's width of space at the front and back of the shoes to accommodate natural foot swelling and movement. For personalized advice and to address any specific concerns, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you invaluable guidance.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from New Jersey Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

  • Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
  • Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
  • Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
  • Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Oradell, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 14 May 2024 00:00

The Benefits of a Gait Assessment

A gait assessment is a valuable tool used to analyze how a person walks or runs. It is typically performed to identify biomechanical issues, musculoskeletal imbalances, or abnormalities that may contribute to pain, discomfort, or reduced mobility. During a gait assessment, a podiatrist observes various aspects of the individual's walking or running pattern, including stride length, foot placement, and overall body alignment. Common abnormalities that may be detected include overpronation or excessive inward rolling of the foot, supination or outward rolling of the foot, leg length discrepancies, and asymmetrical gait patterns. Identifying these abnormalities through a gait assessment allows podiatrists to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to address the specific needs of the individual. This may include recommendations for footwear, custom orthotic devices, and exercises to improve strength and flexibility. If you would like to understand how your walking or running can be improved to lessen discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and gait assessment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from New Jersey Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

  • Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
  • In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Oradell, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 07 May 2024 00:00

Causes of Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is primarily caused by a type of fungi called dermatophytes. The fungi thrive in warm, moist environments. Common sites of infection include public pools, showers, and locker rooms, where the fungus easily spreads from one person to another through direct contact with contaminated surfaces. The risk of developing toenail fungus increases with various factors, such as wearing tight, non-breathable shoes that trap moisture, having a minor nail or skin injury around the nail, or having a weakened immune system. Low blood circulation and slow nail growth can make people susceptible to contracting toenail fungus. Keeping the feet clean and dry, wearing breathable footwear, and using antifungal sprays or powders in shoes and socks can help reduce the chances of contracting toenail fungus. If you are suffering from toenail fungus, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist today. 

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of New Jersey Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Oradell, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

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